Oak Trees

The oak tree family is made up of hundreds of species. As a landscaping tree they make great shade trees and many have great fall color.
This hardwood species has been a staple tree in our society for centuries and was named America's National Tree in 2004. Oak trees can live well
over 200 years and provide hundreds of benefits including lumber and food for wildlife.

Types of Oak Trees

Oak Tree planting, pruning, and care tips

You can find an oak tree for almost all of the planting zones in the United States. Many oaks can and do grow well in
southern climates with many of them extending to zone 9. The Live Oak can be planted in the most
southern zone in the United States, zone 10. Most oaks have a growing range that extends north to zone 4 or 5, but there are several varieties that
can grow in zone 3. Zone 3 varieties include the Northern Red,
Bur, and White Oak.
Oaks are generally large trees so when planting them make sure they will have room to grow both up and out. A planting site for many trees in the oak
family should have enough space for an 80 foot tall tree that is 80 feet wide as well. Oaks can adopt to most soil conditions and generally like full sun.

Oak Wilt affects several species in the Midwest. In areas where Oak Wilt is present, oaks susceptible to wilt should not be pruned in spring or
early summer as the disease is especially active at that time of year.
Learn more about oak wilt.

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